SkillBridge is a Department of War program designed to help service members who have 180 days or less before military discharge navigate civilian work life.

Jose Ruiz (O27), a 20-year U.S. Navy veteran and manager in Newport News Shipbuilding’s Environmental, Health and Safety department, is a testament to the SkillBridge program’s efficacy.

“I was a damage controlman,” he said. “Any damage that a ship can take, we would train the crew on how to prevent it. We were basically first responders for the ship itself. I also served as a fire marshal and did gas-free certifications for most of my career.”

Ruiz’s experience as a sailor includes service on two destroyers, a frigate, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and two shore duty tours. While on Bush, he led the ship’s safety department.

The transition from military to civilian life can be jarring for many veterans, so SkillBridge was often discussed on the ships, Ruiz said.

“SkillBridge gives us an opportunity to see how we can transfer our military knowledge into the civilian world,” he said. “We can see how a company does business and adjust to that lifestyle before we get out of the military.”

Ruiz explained that other benefits SkillBridge provides are the ability to do the civilian job in a hands-on environment while giving company leadership a preview of veterans’ capabilities and what they bring to the table.

Even with the support provided by SkillBridge, Ruiz said there are challenges in the transition – especially in safety.

“In the Navy, people do what you need them to do purely because of rank,” he said. “In a corporate setting, I need buy-in. I need folks to understand why what I’m asking them to do is important, for them to believe in it.”

Ruiz now oversees the marine chemist competent persons team, as well as safety within the submarine manufacturing programs.

A testament to his work ethic and success, he has also inherited duties related to SkillBridge.

“I’ll be the main point of contact for any SkillBridge participants interested in O27’s work at the shipyard,” Ruiz explained. “Since I speak the military language, I can look at their resumes, translate their experience and determine what they can bring to us.”